If you are looking for a festive, fun, and absolutely delightful treat to brighten up your holiday celebrations, the Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings Recipe is exactly what you need. These no-bake mini puddings combine the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the gooey sweetness of melted marshmallows and chocolate, creating a perfect bite-sized holiday dessert. Decorated with colorful candy-coated chocolates to resemble holly berries and leaves, these charming little puddings not only taste heavenly but also add a playful touch to your holiday table. Whether you’re making them with kids or preparing edible gifts for friends and family, this recipe brings warmth and cheer with every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to whip up this charming holiday treat. Each component plays a special role – from the crispy texture of the Rice Krispies cereal to the creamy richness of melted chocolate, and the festive pop of color from candy decorations.
- Rice Krispies cereal (3 cups): The signature crunch that forms the base of your Christmas puds.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup): Helps melt the marshmallows evenly and adds a smooth richness.
- Mini marshmallows (4 cups): Melt down to create that luscious, sticky binding texture.
- Mini chocolate chips or melted milk chocolate (½ cup): Adds a marbled, pudding-like swirl of sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (¼ teaspoon): Gives a subtle warm flavor that balances sweetness beautifully.
- Red and green candy-coated chocolates: Perfect to create those festive holly decorations.
- Melted white chocolate: For the signature icing drizzle that makes these puddings pop visually.
- Small green fondant leaves or green sprinkles (optional): Adds an extra touch of holiday spirit, resembling holly leaves.
How to Make Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
Start by gently melting your unsalted butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Once melted, toss in all those fluffy mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they dissolve completely into a smooth, creamy mixture. This step is crucial because those melted marshmallows bind everything together into your pudding base. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse that cozy vanilla warmth into the mix.
Step 2: Mix in Rice Krispies and Chocolate
Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Let the mixture cool just a little, enough to handle safely, then fold in the melted chocolate or mini chocolate chips. Swirl them gently at this stage to create that gorgeous marbled effect reminiscent of a Christmas pudding’s rich appearance.
Step 3: Shape Your Mini Puddings
Grease your hands lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking and shape the mixture into small balls, about two inches wide. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for sharing and snacking. Lay them delicately on a parchment-lined tray to prepare for decorating.
Step 4: Decorate with White Chocolate and Candy
Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of each ball to replicate icing dripping on a traditional Christmas pudding. While the white chocolate is still soft, top each mini pudding with a red candy in the center (like a festive berry) and scatter some green candies or sprinkles nearby to resemble bright holly leaves. This is where your treat really transforms into a charming holiday centerpiece!
Step 5: Let Set
Allow your puddings to set at room temperature or pop them into the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes until they firm up nicely. Once set, they are ready to be admired and devoured!
How to Serve Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple and let the decorations shine. A fresh mint leaf tucked beside the puddings can enhance the holly motif, or add a light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect. These small touches elevate the festive look and delight your guests.
Side Dishes
Pair your Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast. If you want to keep things light, serving them with a fresh fruit platter containing berries and sliced citrus complements the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap each mini pudding in clear cellophane tied with a festive ribbon to make adorable edible gifts. Alternatively, arrange them on a decorative holiday platter surrounded by pine sprigs and mini ornaments for an eye-catching dessert display that doubles as a festive centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness. They will keep well for up to three days, making them perfect for prepping ahead of a party.
Freezing
If you want to save these delightful treats for later, freeze them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to a month — just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Although these no-bake puddings are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a gooey texture. Be careful not to overheat, or they might become too sticky and lose their shape.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can! Just chop the larger marshmallows into smaller pieces to help them melt evenly when you’re cooking.
Are these Rice Krispie Christmas puddings suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They are a fun, mess-free treat that kids can help make and enjoy, especially because no baking is involved.
What if I’m allergic to nuts or chocolate?
If chocolate is a concern, you can omit it or substitute with a nut-free candy coating. Just remember that it will change the flavor and appearance slightly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal, this recipe can be adapted to suit gluten-free diets.
How long do the Rice Krispie Christmas puddings last?
These sweet treats stay fresh for about three days when stored properly, but they’re usually too delicious to last that long!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making and sharing the Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings Recipe during the holidays. It’s a no-fuss, joyful way to create a festive treat that brings smiles and warmth to any gathering. So, gather your ingredients, invite the family or friends, and enjoy making these merry little delights together. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can come together to create something so special and memorable. Happy holidays and happy snacking!
Print
Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini puddings
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Treat
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings are a festive, no-bake holiday treat perfect for kids and adults alike. Made with gooey marshmallows, crunchy Rice Krispies cereal, and festive red and green candies, these easy-to-make mini puddings capture the spirit of the season with a fun and colorful twist. The melted white chocolate drizzle and candy holly decorations add a delightful finishing touch, making them ideal for Christmas parties, edible gifts, or a seasonal snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips or milk chocolate, melted
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Decorations
- Red and green candy-coated chocolates (like M&Ms)
- White chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
- Small green fondant leaves or green sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to add flavor.
- Combine with Cereal and Chocolate: Quickly mix in the Rice Krispies cereal, gently stirring to ensure all the cereal is coated evenly with the melted marshmallow mixture. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the melted chocolate chips to create a marbled, pudding-like appearance.
- Shape the Puddings: Lightly grease your hands with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Shape the mixture into small balls about 2 inches wide each, then place them on a parchment-lined tray to set.
- Decorate: Drizzle melted white chocolate over each ball to resemble icing. While the drizzle is still wet, decorate each pudding with a red candy in the center and green candies or sprinkles around it to mimic holly leaves.
- Set and Chill: Allow the puddings to set at room temperature or chill them in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes until firm. Once set, they are ready to serve or package as gifts.
Notes
- For easier shaping, slightly wet your hands before rolling the mixture into balls.
- Store the puddings in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- These festive treats make excellent edible gifts or party favors during the holiday season.
